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SODA against shoplifters

The Retail Resolution Agreement is a civil procedure developed by SODA to handle shoplifting incidents without involving the police. Through a voluntary settlement agreement, damages are recovered directly from the shoplifter.

How it works

Confront the shoplifter

If the shoplifter is cooperative, the incident can be resolved independently. In cases of disagreement, aggression, or vulnerability, the police must be contacted.

Fill out the online form

Enter the shoplifter’s personal details and a description of the incident.

Sign the form

Completion of the process is confirmed once both the shoplifter and the employee have provided their digital signatures.

Payment

Payment can be made via QR code; otherwise, SODA will take over and recover the damages.

Key benefits

Shoplifting

Legal Basis

The Retail Resolution Agreement complies with UK civil law and data protection regulations. It enables retailers to resolve incidents proportionately and lawfully, without triggering criminal proceedings. The shoplifter voluntarily agrees to compensate the retailer, and personal data is processed in line with UK GDPR standards through informed and explicit consent.

This approach offers a respectful and legally robust alternative to criminal prosecution – protecting the retailer’s interests while avoiding unnecessary long-term consequences for the shoplifter.

Compensation amount

We are currently conducting a comprehensive review to determine the most appropriate compensation amount for the UK market. This process considers multiple factors and is carried out in close collaboration with legal experts to ensure a fair and credible standard that reflects both the severity of the offense and the operational realities faced by retailers.

  • Netherlands: Standard claim is €181, established in 2015 (currently under review)
  • Belgium: Currently €141, based on legal advice and operational costs. This will increase to €181 next year

 

The compensation covers staff time, administrative burden, and prevention costs. It is also intended to have a deterrent effect.

Shoplifting